Advanced Metering at RPU

At Rochester Public Utilities (RPU), we’re committed to delivering safe, reliable service—and that includes upgrading the way we operate. In early 2026, we’ll begin installing new electric and water meters as part of our new advanced metering project.

What is advanced metering?

Advanced metering uses upgraded electric and water meters that securely communicate with RPU through a two-way network. This modern system will allow us to:

  • Remotely read meters
  • Detect outages more quickly and diagnose some system problems
  • Provide you with detailed usage data through an enhanced customer portal (coming soon)

Installation details

Electric meters

  • Installation takes less than 15 minutes. Some installations will require a brief outage to exchange the meter.
  • No appointment needed—you don’t need to be home

Water meters

  • Installation takes 30–60 minutes
  • Appointment required, as the meter is located inside your home or business

All installations will be performed by RPU and our trusted partner, WESCO. Installers will carry proper ID and wear uniforms or badges. Learn what to expect during your meter upgrade by watching our short installation videos for both electric and water meters:

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is advanced metering?
Advanced metering is a modern system that uses upgraded electric and water meters to securely communicate usage data between your home or business and RPU. This allows for faster outage detection and better customer service.

Why is RPU replacing my meters?
Advanced meters are the new utility standard. They help RPU improve efficiency, reduce some operating costs, and provide customers with access to more detailed usage information. Our current system collects meter readings using a vehicle, and the water meters are powered by batteries that, in some cases, have been in use for up to 25 years. It’s time to upgrade these meters and modernize the technology.

When will installations happen?
Installations will begin in early 2026 and continue over the next three years for both residential and commercial customers.

What’s the difference between electric and water meter installation?

  • Electric meters take less than 15 minutes and do not require you to be home.
  • Water meters take 30–60 minutes and do require an appointment since technicians must access your indoor meter.

How will I know when my meter is being replaced?
Customers will receive advanced notification. If you're not home during an electric meter exchange, the installer will leave a door hanger with follow-up information. Water meter appointments will be scheduled ahead of time.

Who is doing the installations?
RPU and our trusted partner, WESCO, will perform all meter installations. Installers will wear proper identification and uniforms or badges.

Will I lose service during installation?
There may be a brief service interruption while the meter is being replaced.

Is my data secure?
Yes. At RPU, protecting your personal data is more than a legal requirement. It’s a responsibility we take seriously. We are committed to safeguarding your information as part of our ongoing duty to you as a customer. That means going above and beyond when needed to ensure your data stays secure. Data is encrypted and transmitted securely, and no personal or account information is sent over the radio system. We also comply with Minnesota statute 13.685, which protects customer information.

When will I be able to see my usage data?
Once fully implemented, customers will be able to view updated electric and water usage information through an enhanced customer portal (coming soon).  

Can I opt out?
No. Advanced metering is part of a system-wide upgrade and is required for operational compatibility and efficiency.

Will I be charged extra for advanced metering?
No. There will be no additional charges to customers for the installation of advanced meters. The cost of this is already included in RPU’s existing rate structure, which is based on the overall cost to serve our customers. This approach allows us to make improvements like advanced metering while continuing to deliver safe, reliable, and efficient service without introducing new fees.

Will RPU be able to control anything in my home or business?
No. The advanced metering system does not allow RPU to control any devices or systems inside your home or business.

Will the meter interact with my thermostat?
No. While RPU offers a BYOD Thermostat program, it is separate from the metering system and does not communicate with your electric meter.

Will my advanced meter compromise my privacy?
No. All advanced metering data is subject to the same strict data privacy and security standards that apply to other personal information collected by RPU.

Can you help me reset the clock on my microwave after the brief power outage when my meter is exchanged?
Probably not, sorry.

Will advanced metering work if I have solar panels?
Yes. The advanced meter will continue to measure the electricity you use from the grid and the excess solar energy you send back, just like your current meter. Most customers with solar have two meters: one for their main service and one for solar production. Both will be replaced as part of this project.

Are advanced meters safe?
Yes. Advanced meters meet safety standards set by major health, regulatory, and utility organizations.

If I’m enrolled in Service Assured®, will anything change with advanced metering?
No. Your coverage and benefits under Service Assured® will stay the same. If there are any issues with your meter socket, the expanded coverage under Service Assured Electric will often protect your investment.

Will advanced meters change how or when I’m billed?
 No. You’ll continue to receive a monthly bill, and all meters follow nationally recognized accuracy standards (ANSI C12).

What happens to the old meter? Will it be recycled?
Yes. RPU will recycle or dispose of old meters using environmentally responsible methods.